China is eager to build a partnership and friendship with the United States, according to China’s ambassador to Washington. In a speech in Hong Kong on Friday, Ambassador Xie Feng emphasized the need for strengthened dialogue between the world’s two largest economies. He assured that China has no intention of surpassing or replacing the United States.
Xie addressed both Chinese officials and the U.S. ambassador to China, highlighting Beijing’s aim to reset relations with Washington as Donald Trump prepares to return to the presidency in January. Trump’s promise to impose tariffs exceeding 60% on Chinese imports has raised concerns. However, Beijing and Chinese companies see a potential opportunity if Trump’s protectionist policies also strain relations with U.S. allies in Europe and Asia. This could allow China to expand its global influence and improve trade ties.
Chinese President Xi Jinping, speaking on Friday, advocated for rejecting unilateralism and protectionism in favor of economic globalization. Nonetheless, some analysts believe that China’s current positioning as a counterbalance to a Trump-led United States is less compelling than it was in 2016 when Trump was first elected.
Ambassador Xie reiterated that the Sino-U.S. partnership is not a zero-sum game, stressing the significant potential for collaboration in areas such as trade, agriculture, energy, artificial intelligence, and public health. He called for a “tone of dialogue” to address mutual concerns, advocating for open communication and equal-footing negotiations.
Regarding Taiwan, Xie identified it as the primary “flashpoint” that could lead to conflict between Beijing and Washington. He urged for clear opposition to “separatists” in Taiwan, which China considers its territory, a claim that Taiwan rejects.
